Questions: A middle adult client tells the nurse, "I feel so useless now that my children do not need me anymore." Which of the following responses should the nurse make? "Most people are happy when their children grow up and leave home." "You should be proud that your children are becoming independent." "Maybe you should consider why you are feeling useless." "People in middle adulthood often find satisfaction in nurturing and guiding young people."

The answer is "People in middle adulthood often find satisfaction in nurturing and guiding young people."

This response is dismissive and does not address the client's feelings of uselessness. It may make the client feel misunderstood or invalidated.

While this response acknowledges the positive aspect of children becoming independent, it still does not address the client's feelings of uselessness directly. It may come across as minimizing the client's current emotional state.

This response could be perceived as confrontational or accusatory, which might not be helpful in a therapeutic context. It does not provide support or guidance for the client.

This response is empathetic and supportive. It acknowledges the client's feelings and offers a constructive perspective by suggesting that they can find new ways to feel useful and fulfilled. It aligns with Erikson's theory of psychosocial development, which posits that middle adulthood is a time for individuals to find meaning through nurturing and guiding the next generation.